In light of my sister recently having a baby and making me an aunty for the first time, I though this would be the perfect topic of conversation J During pregnancy there are safety considerations regarding skin care products worth taking note of for the health and stability of the fetus. The body does a good job of protecting the fetus by filtering bacteria and germs through the placenta but there are some ingredients in our products that can make their way through to a developing fetus.
What does this even mean and why is it important? Using certain products like retinols and glycolics can ultimately enter into the bloodstream and potentially hinder the development of the fetus. I recently just started doing research regarding this matter because I wanted to make sure my sister was using appropriate skin care products throughout her pregnancy. It turns out that certain products take nutrients that should be going to the development of the fetus and use them to nourish your skin instead.
Here is just a quick list of product to avoid during pregnancy:
- Salicylic Acid (BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid): often found in acne products, exfoliants and anti-aging products.
- Retinol A: this is a form of Vitamin A that is commonly used to treat acne and is anti-aging. High doses of Vitamin A have been proven to be harmful to a baby.
- Parabens: Used as a preservative. While it is an ingredient worth avoiding for all of us research is beginning to show a link from parabens to an adverse effect on the reproductive system of baby boys. Once again more research is needed but as a mom-to-be why risk it.
- Essential oils: Not all essential oils are harmful but there are certain ones worth avoiding. Here is a list of SAFE essential oil that can be used in moderation during pregnancy: Bergamot, Calendula, Virginia Cedar, Roman and Moroccan Chamomile, Elemi, Fir, Frankincense - Boswelia Carterii, Helichrysum, Lavender Angustifolia, Neroli, Sweet Myrrh – Oppapanax, Patchouli, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Spruce, Ylang Ylang. Anything else I wouldn’t touch.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Again another product most commonly used to treat acne, can be harmful to the baby.
Here is a useful link that has a more in-depth list of ingredients to avoid and why: http://www.natural-living-for-women.com/avoid-during-pregnancy.html
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